When I reread what I’ve written, I listen to the rhythm of the words and sentences. I like my narrative to be lyrical–especially in my literary pieces. Cadence matters. It’s one of the most valuable tools in the writer’s workshop, because it allows finesse.

Finesse also matters. Yes, exclamation points, ellipses, dashes, caps, and bold fonts or italics can bring your point home, but they’re all aggressive, obvious. They all say to the reader, “this is the way you should read.”

I’m not arguing with the use of those tools. They come in handy. But a carefully orchestrated cadence–the pulse of the beat of the words–presents the same message with the finesse that marks a mature writer.

12 Responses to The Musicality of Writing

So true – and even more so (dare I say absolutely critical?) for picture books – rhyming or not. Working on one right now about jump roping – and in some places I’m pondering whether the cadence isn’t even MORE important than the words. Great post, my friend!

When I comment on the beat or the rhythm of a piece in a critique group, I know the people who get what I’m saying are kindred spirits who understand words the way I do. Thank you for posting. I hope you don’t mind if I share.